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Christmas Caralyn: A Christmas Carol Retelling
A Christmas Carol Retelling
A Christmas Carol + A splash of romance = A story to remember
Other than the added bonus of selling more product from her mistletoe farm, Christmas can rot as far as Caralyn Benzer is concerned. Life has taken her down some dark paths since her mother’s death, seven years ago. When her mom appears to her on December first, demanding for her to change or else, for the next thirty days, Caralyn is sent on a journey through her past, present, and future with the only person who can help her remember who she was before Caralyn’s Christmas was destroyed.
Her dreams start affecting reality, and when her childhood friend Bobby shows an interest for Caralyn, her resolve to keep him at an arm’s length melts, along with the hard shell around her heart as she reviews the choices that have taken her so far from who she used to be.
The only standing between her choices and her desired change is herself. Can she put the past aside long enough to be the person in the future she years to be?
A Christmas Carol + A splash of romance = A story to remember
Other than the added bonus of selling more product from her mistletoe farm, Christmas can rot as far as Caralyn Benzer is concerned. Life has taken her down some dark paths since her mother’s death, seven years ago. When her mom appears to her on December first, demanding for her to change or else, for the next thirty days, Caralyn is sent on a journey through her past, present, and future with the only person who can help her remember who she was before Caralyn’s Christmas was destroyed.
Her dreams start affecting reality, and when her childhood friend Bobby shows an interest for Caralyn, her resolve to keep him at an arm’s length melts, along with the hard shell around her heart as she reviews the choices that have taken her so far from who she used to be.
The only standing between her choices and her desired change is herself. Can she put the past aside long enough to be the person in the future she years to be?
- GenresClean Romance
242 pages, Paperback
Published November 30, 2020
13 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Rabe
27 books109 followersAfter going on over 150 first dates, Jenny has a a wealth of dating experience. She lives with her husband and three kids near the mountains, drawing inspiration from the constant ups and downs of relationships. When she's not writing clean, swoony romances, she's following some other dream to make a difference in the world.
Check out her inspirational romances under the penname of June B. Anderson.
Check out her inspirational romances under the penname of June B. Anderson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 16, 2025
Past, Present, Future.
Caralyn didn't have a choice in visiting these with a ghost near Christmas time. When she slept, a ghost would visit and lead her through various times and places.
Having lost her mom to cancer seven years ago, around Christmas time, Caralyn doesn't want to have anything to do with the holiday. She becomes somewhat of a Scrooge, which lends this book into being A Christmas Carol (Charles Dickens) retelling of sorts.
Funny enough, she owns and runs a mistletoe store. Packing and shipping them all over the world. Her employee and childhood friend, Bobby, still pines for her. She just wants to remain single and grumpy. No happiness for her. Will she hear the message that is trying to be sent, and learn the intended message? And if so, can she ever learn to allow happiness into her Scrooge-like heart?
I adored this book!
Sweet and clean, holiday romance, Jenny Rabe style! Her books are always enjoyable to me and are palette cleansers between heavy fantasy or dark romance books that I mostly read. Jenny is a talented author, bringing her own unique style to my book nook!
Maybe yours, too...
I highly recommend checking her out! Books available on Kindle, Audible audiobook, and paperback on Amazon.
Audiobook Narrator: Tessa Compton
Caralyn didn't have a choice in visiting these with a ghost near Christmas time. When she slept, a ghost would visit and lead her through various times and places.
Having lost her mom to cancer seven years ago, around Christmas time, Caralyn doesn't want to have anything to do with the holiday. She becomes somewhat of a Scrooge, which lends this book into being A Christmas Carol (Charles Dickens) retelling of sorts.
Funny enough, she owns and runs a mistletoe store. Packing and shipping them all over the world. Her employee and childhood friend, Bobby, still pines for her. She just wants to remain single and grumpy. No happiness for her. Will she hear the message that is trying to be sent, and learn the intended message? And if so, can she ever learn to allow happiness into her Scrooge-like heart?
I adored this book!
Sweet and clean, holiday romance, Jenny Rabe style! Her books are always enjoyable to me and are palette cleansers between heavy fantasy or dark romance books that I mostly read. Jenny is a talented author, bringing her own unique style to my book nook!
Maybe yours, too...
I highly recommend checking her out! Books available on Kindle, Audible audiobook, and paperback on Amazon.
Audiobook Narrator: Tessa Compton
January 3, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. It is a Christmas Carol story with romance. I can see myself reading this every Christmas!
August 1, 2025
This take on a Christmas Carol was very cute. The romcom twist gives you butterflies and giggles. In my opinion, it was a tiny bit too long, but it was a very enjoyable read.
August 27, 2024
5 ⭐️
This book and also this author are just SO sweet. This book is exactly what it says it is, but in a creative and unique way! I want to preface this by saying I don’t read romance unless it is like Jane Austen or Jenny Rabe! This was such a sweet romance that felt like I was reading from the inside of a Christmas Hallmark movie. If you like sweet romances, this would be a great option for you.
This book and also this author are just SO sweet. This book is exactly what it says it is, but in a creative and unique way! I want to preface this by saying I don’t read romance unless it is like Jane Austen or Jenny Rabe! This was such a sweet romance that felt like I was reading from the inside of a Christmas Hallmark movie. If you like sweet romances, this would be a great option for you.
December 25, 2021
Really good
This Bobby was a SAINT! :D I want one of those please. I loved the whole do over trope and even when I was a little frustrated with the heroine I get that she had a trauma and that's what happens with mental diseases it's not fun and people need to be very suportive until the other person is back again. I really enjoyed how the ghosts show the heroine the other side of the story I wish we all have that oportunity but the reality is that we have to let go of things and move on, there were so many insightful quotes about regret, and moving on I really liked that. This was a short fast paced and clean romance story, it really made me think and I loved loved the fact that the heroine was the grumpy one here cause itsy usually the guy but I Love grumpy heroines. That was a nice changed to the original story. What I found odd was that the heroine told the hero what happened with the ghosts visits, that was really weird like he didn't find that strange and he forgave her for not realising on her own about her feelings for him and also I didn't like when she told him that she wanted to date him Even if they were not exclusive, I didn't like that it's not My cup of tea but I know it's not wrong it's just a personal preference. Anyway I liked this book it was a short fast paced and clean holiday romance
This Bobby was a SAINT! :D I want one of those please. I loved the whole do over trope and even when I was a little frustrated with the heroine I get that she had a trauma and that's what happens with mental diseases it's not fun and people need to be very suportive until the other person is back again. I really enjoyed how the ghosts show the heroine the other side of the story I wish we all have that oportunity but the reality is that we have to let go of things and move on, there were so many insightful quotes about regret, and moving on I really liked that. This was a short fast paced and clean romance story, it really made me think and I loved loved the fact that the heroine was the grumpy one here cause itsy usually the guy but I Love grumpy heroines. That was a nice changed to the original story. What I found odd was that the heroine told the hero what happened with the ghosts visits, that was really weird like he didn't find that strange and he forgave her for not realising on her own about her feelings for him and also I didn't like when she told him that she wanted to date him Even if they were not exclusive, I didn't like that it's not My cup of tea but I know it's not wrong it's just a personal preference. Anyway I liked this book it was a short fast paced and clean holiday romance
November 24, 2020
Caralyn fit the character of Scrooge very well with her lack of Christmas spirit, her obsession with saving money, and pushing everyone away that tried to get too close even her best friend Bobby. He bends over backwards to make her happy, take care of her needs at his own expense, and come running whenever she needs him. She really takes him for granted and it isn't until her deceased mother and Ghost Bobby appear in spirit to show her visions of her past, present, and potential future and Bobby's ex-fiance is in the picture wanting him back that Carolyn begins to see what he means to her and the error of her ways. I was frustrated when she made progress and became a better person and then because of a concussion goes back to her grinchy, mean spirited ways. If I was Bobby I might wonder if she's really changed. I thought a mistletoe business was interesting and was surprised that Caralyn could do enough business to keep the company operational and in the black year round. I did identify with her in the way she holds off on spending money on herself because I can be like that at times, more so lately with the high unemployment. It made me realize I need to be more generous too not just with others but with myself.
March 20, 2022
theory and reality
It´s easy to say we have to learn from our mistakes, we have to change and build our own future. We have become what we are from our past experiences and since none of us know what the future will bring we only know in hindsight whether a decision we made was right or wrong. I understand Caralyn being afraid after the loss of her beloved mother and feeling left alone by her father and best friend Bobby that she is literally frozen with fear that any change she decides to make would end up turning things to an even worse condition. So she rather sticks to being the cold person she doesn´t even like herself than opening up and being hurt again. We tend to forget that our decisions and behaviour not only have an impact on our own lives but on the people that interact with us as well.
Fortunately like in Dickens´Christmas Carol the ghosts help her giving changes a try and thereby make not only her but all her friends´ and relatives´ better.
It´s easy to say we have to learn from our mistakes, we have to change and build our own future. We have become what we are from our past experiences and since none of us know what the future will bring we only know in hindsight whether a decision we made was right or wrong. I understand Caralyn being afraid after the loss of her beloved mother and feeling left alone by her father and best friend Bobby that she is literally frozen with fear that any change she decides to make would end up turning things to an even worse condition. So she rather sticks to being the cold person she doesn´t even like herself than opening up and being hurt again. We tend to forget that our decisions and behaviour not only have an impact on our own lives but on the people that interact with us as well.
Fortunately like in Dickens´Christmas Carol the ghosts help her giving changes a try and thereby make not only her but all her friends´ and relatives´ better.
November 3, 2020
Jenny Rabe gives a contemporary twist to A Christmas Carol. Now, if you remember A Christmas Carol wasn't all warm and fuzzy to start with, and neither is Christmas Caralyn. Hang in there, it's definitely worth it! Caralyn lost her mom to cancer and has hardened her heart to everything and everyone. She fits Scrooge's character to a T. As Caralyn started to let the walls come down from around her heart, I came to love her character, and Bobby was always easy to love. Caralyn's business is perfect for a Christmas story--they sell mistletoe! There is a huge twist towards the end of the story and a fantastic resolution.
I received a complimentary copy. I chose to write a review and share my opinion of this classic tale modernized to be a well-written romance.
I received a complimentary copy. I chose to write a review and share my opinion of this classic tale modernized to be a well-written romance.
November 26, 2020
Realistic twist on A Christmas Carol
4 1/2-5 stars. At times it was s but too realistic and I could picture myself a Caralyn a little at times and see what led her to her choices. I also loved the way the plot twist flowed with the story only making it better. After all every relationship has its bumps in the road. While some make you grown with frustration this one just had me worried about if her newly found path to include people in her life would crumble. Love, love loved this sweet, clean romance about realizing your feelings and taking a leap of faith so you don't miss out on the best thing that could happen to you.
4 1/2-5 stars. At times it was s but too realistic and I could picture myself a Caralyn a little at times and see what led her to her choices. I also loved the way the plot twist flowed with the story only making it better. After all every relationship has its bumps in the road. While some make you grown with frustration this one just had me worried about if her newly found path to include people in her life would crumble. Love, love loved this sweet, clean romance about realizing your feelings and taking a leap of faith so you don't miss out on the best thing that could happen to you.
February 17, 2025
I think I give this a 4.5 ⭐. Jenny Rabe had a sale for new readers. You end up purchasing a mystery book and give her a couple of the categories she has listed as your interest. She picks one of her books within those categories and sent the book out but only for people who have never read her work. She sent me a signed copy of Christmas Caralyn and a thank you card.
This is a Christmas Carol retelling and Jenny is a clean romance writer so no steamy scenes but the romance and drama is still there. This is definitely a cozy book that would make for a good Christmas read, reminding you of the things we hold close during the season. It gave me some feel good feelings.
This is a Christmas Carol retelling and Jenny is a clean romance writer so no steamy scenes but the romance and drama is still there. This is definitely a cozy book that would make for a good Christmas read, reminding you of the things we hold close during the season. It gave me some feel good feelings.
November 13, 2020
This was a great romance with A Christmas Carol twist. It was just the thing I needed for the holiday season. The characters were relatable and realistic. This book had me rooting for Caralyn. Life threw her some curve balls and left her a little jaded. However, sometimes life gives you sweet moments that change you for the better, especially during the holidays. Caralyn receives that along with a dash of love. I recommend this book. It even had me lose a bit of the "scrooge" in myself and decorate early for Christmas!
June 3, 2021
Caroline is extremely bitter and not willing to let things go. Especially the death of her mother. Her business partner and oldest friend Bobby tries to help her out of the funk, but she just sees it as pity. As ghosts begin visiting her and telling her she has limited time to figure out how to let it go, she starts seeing Bobby in a new light.
I’m not a huge fan of A Christmas Carol but thought I’d give this a try. It was pretty good. The added clean romance helped take some of the bitterness and orneriness out of the main character so that helped. :)
I’m not a huge fan of A Christmas Carol but thought I’d give this a try. It was pretty good. The added clean romance helped take some of the bitterness and orneriness out of the main character so that helped. :)
December 27, 2021
Wonderful Christmas Carol Retell!
I absolutely loved this book. I loved the original Dickens story as well but this one had a great spin on it and showed beautiful growth in the main character over a month period of time. I didn’t want this story to end. I stayed up late reading and really struggled to put it down. If you want to feel something, read this excellent sweet (and clean) romance book.
I absolutely loved this book. I loved the original Dickens story as well but this one had a great spin on it and showed beautiful growth in the main character over a month period of time. I didn’t want this story to end. I stayed up late reading and really struggled to put it down. If you want to feel something, read this excellent sweet (and clean) romance book.
August 4, 2024
It's a heartwarming story
Jenny Rabe did a fantastic job with this retelling of A Christmas Carol.
I have never really been one who reads romance, but when I saw this book, I instantly began to read it.
There were many times when I wanted to scream at the MC and ask her what the heck she was waiting for! But I also deeply connected with the loss that she had felt with her mother's passing.
It is a beautiful story and 100% will recommend it to everyone.
Jenny Rabe did a fantastic job with this retelling of A Christmas Carol.
I have never really been one who reads romance, but when I saw this book, I instantly began to read it.
There were many times when I wanted to scream at the MC and ask her what the heck she was waiting for! But I also deeply connected with the loss that she had felt with her mother's passing.
It is a beautiful story and 100% will recommend it to everyone.
August 27, 2024
Narrator: 4.5/5 (I listened on 2x speed)
Story: 4/5
This book is a great take on a classic tale we all know. It scratches the itch for a holiday romance. While I could have done without the twist that dragged the story out, I did enjoy this book. I yelled at a character or two while listening to it, which gives it the mark of a good book to me. I could see myself rereading it when I want a holiday romance book again.
Story: 4/5
This book is a great take on a classic tale we all know. It scratches the itch for a holiday romance. While I could have done without the twist that dragged the story out, I did enjoy this book. I yelled at a character or two while listening to it, which gives it the mark of a good book to me. I could see myself rereading it when I want a holiday romance book again.
February 1, 2025
It's a sweet, Hallmark channel type of book. I prefer my books a little darker, more seductive, BUT, this was a sweet book that's decently written. If you're someone who likes a sweeter slow burn type of romance, this is the author you need to be buying from. I follow her on tik tok & she's wonderfully sweet & kind. This was the first book of hers I've read, and it was a good choice.
October 27, 2020
Honestly I struggled with how harsh Carolyn’s personality was at the first of this book. Since this is as retelling of Christmas carol,i it fits well with Scrooge’s personality. I liked the ghost Bobby visits. Bobby is amazing and patient. This was a fun modern twist on Christmas Carol.
November 3, 2020
This book is so good! It is well written and has just the right amount of drama and romance to keep you turning the pages. Caralyn and Bobby's story will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. This book was a joy to read.
November 13, 2020
I really loved the romantic twist on such a classic Christmas story. I think it’s perfect for the holiday season and kinda wish Lifetime would make a movie out of this book! I was glad to bring the holidays into my home early with an advanced copy.
November 20, 2020
This was a wonderful retelling of A Christmas Carol with just enough changes to make it new and interesting. Jenny Rabe has found a way to make a predicable story unpredictable. The characters are compelling and draw you in to the story. I highly recommend this book!
December 25, 2021
New fictional boyfriend but poor man how he suffered! This was a really insightful and entertaining story. I loved the grumpy heroine even when I was frustrated with her but I could relate to her so I guess that's why I'm so forgiven. Clean romance with a cinnamon roll hero
April 5, 2024
It was so cute!
The development of the character is very real!
When her deceased mother visits her and encourages her… I sobbed! The communication became very healthy and a great “role model”. Very clean!
The development of the character is very real!
When her deceased mother visits her and encourages her… I sobbed! The communication became very healthy and a great “role model”. Very clean!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2024
Adorable page turner
I love how this story is relatable yet different from similar stories. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in reading love stories that are not raunchy. Jenny's writing is real without being overly, sexually descriptive.
I love how this story is relatable yet different from similar stories. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in reading love stories that are not raunchy. Jenny's writing is real without being overly, sexually descriptive.
November 27, 2020
What a fun holiday read!
Jenny Rabe takes a fresh and fun twist on a beloved classic. She keeps enough of the elements of Dickins’ original tale to make it recognizable, but she changes enough to keep it new and exciting rather than the same old retelling we have seen time and time again.
Jenny Rabe takes a fresh and fun twist on a beloved classic. She keeps enough of the elements of Dickins’ original tale to make it recognizable, but she changes enough to keep it new and exciting rather than the same old retelling we have seen time and time again.
August 3, 2022
Ended well but was a little long
I really enjoyed this book. However I felt like it was a little long. It ended well, but it took so long to get to that point.
I really enjoyed this book. However I felt like it was a little long. It ended well, but it took so long to get to that point.
January 8, 2023
What a journey. She was so indecisive. Her best friend stuck with her as best as he could. Then there were dreams, lost people in her life and an accident. I wish them well
December 23, 2023
I loved this modern day Christmas Carrol. I love how Caralyn is able to see how what she does and said affects Bobby and everything he has done to show he loves her.
I listened to this on audible.
I listened to this on audible.
May 14, 2024
Christmas is my happy place and this sweet romance is the perfect pick me up!
December 18, 2024
Very interesting and cute retelling of a classic story but with modern themes.
January 15, 2025
Another awesome read by Jenny Rabe! I love the twist on the Christmas classic ‘A Christmas Carol.’ Where can I find a man like Bobby at my age?! lol
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews